Introduction to Nursing Homes

If you are no longer able to remain living independently at home, moving into a nursing home can ensure quality of life, comfort and give you peace of mind that you’re well looked after.

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There are many nursing homes catering for different needs and interests. They can be run by private companies, church groups, charitable organisations or communities.

Some homes cater to a specific cultural and linguistic group or offer culturally appropriate services. Others offer specialist care for people with conditions such as dementia.

If you like pets you may like to choose a home with live-in pets.

While there are many different nursing homes to choose from, the cost and what is included are likely to be high priorities in your decision of which home to choose.

What services are included

Government funded nursing homes must give a certain level of service
in order to be accredited. Services included in the nursing home fees
are:

The provision of staff continuously on call to provide emergency assistance

Assistance with personal care such as bathing, going to the toilet, eating and dressing

Support with mobility and communication

Help to access specialised therapy services or a health practitioner service

Support for people with cognitive impairment, such as dementia

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They also provide meals - including special diets, toiletry items such as towels, washers, soap and toilet paper, and general laundry and cleaning services are also included in the nursing home fees.

While included, you may prefer to use your own toiletries or ask family members or friends to wash your clothes. This will not reduce the fee you pay.

The nursing home will provide beds, mattresses, linen, bedside lockers and chairs. However, to make your room more homely, you are often encouraged to bring small items of furniture and other personal belongings such as pictures and ornaments.

The maintenance of buildings and grounds, utility costs (ie electricity and water) and council rates are always included in the general fee.

Nursing homes also provide a range of social and recreational activities, and rehabilitation support at no additional charge. Spiritual needs are catered for and some homes have a chapel or prayer area available on site.

What’s not included

There may be an extra fee if you require additional care services such as:

Lifestyle services

Nursing home sometimes provide their residents with additional lifestyle services and activities which may attract additional charges like a hairdresser and beautician, an on site café, and a direct phone line to the bedroom.

Extra service beds

Extra service homes receive approval from the Australian Government to offer a higher standard of accommodation, food and services at an additional charge. The term 'Extra Service' only refers to the standard of accommodation, meals, food and entertainment and not to the level of care. For instance, you may like to pay extra for a bigger room, a glass of wine with the evening meal, or perhaps a greater choice of meals.

Always ask the nursing home what is included in its general fee and what additional services you may need to pay for.

Respite care

Many nursing homes offer respite care. This is the opportunity for both you and your carer to take a break for a few hours, a day, a night or a few weeks.

You can also use respite care as a way to ensure the home is a ‘good fit’ for you before moving in permanently.

Placement consultants

A placement consultant can help you find a nursing home that best suits your needs. They are familiar with the aged care process, know the culture of the homes in their local area and often have advanced knowledge when vacancies become available.

They can also help with the necessary paperwork and application forms.

It is often well worth considering the services of a placement consultant. They can take over a lot of the stress that comes with searching for, and transitioning into a home.